2018 KIA Venga 1.6L Petrol · CA68 NTV

The 2018 Kia Venga’s most recent MOT test on 2026-06-03 resulted in a passing outcome, though it included a single advisory regarding rear tyre wear—specifically, slight cracking and edge wear on both rear tyres. This marks a return to a cleaner MOT record following a period of recurring issues, particularly in the braking and lighting systems, which saw multiple failures and advisories over the preceding three years. The pattern of failures appears to have stabilised, with no further major defects noted since the 2024-11-05 test, though the rear tyre advisory from June 2026 suggests ongoing wear concerns that require attention. While the vehicle has not been subject to severe MOT failures in the past year, the history indicates that certain components—particularly brakes, tyres, and lighting—have been more prone to wear or malfunction, reflecting either underlying mechanical stress or less-than-optimal maintenance. The vehicle’s recorded mileage of 49,055 miles over approximately eight years translates to around 6,132 miles annually, which is within the expected range for a Kia Venga of this age and usage profile. This rate of mileage accumulation is neither exceptionally high nor low for a vehicle of its vintage, but it does not rule out periods of prolonged standing or lighter use, which can accelerate wear on consumables like brake pads, tyres, and seals. Rapid mileage accumulation, however, would have been more concerning, as it would suggest increased stress on suspension, drivetrain, and fluid systems. The absence of significant mileage spikes in the MOT history supports the likelihood that the vehicle has been driven at a steady pace, though the wear advisories—particularly on tyres and brakes—suggest that some components have been subjected to higher-than-average usage or neglect. For a prospective buyer, the most critical areas to inspect are the braking system and tyres, given the recurring MOT advisories and potential for dangerous failure. The offside rear brake pads were recorded as dangerously thin at 1.5 mm or less during the 2023-11-15 MOT, and the excessive binding of the offside rear service brake indicates a potential mechanical issue with the brake mechanism, possibly due to warping, warped discs, or seized calipers. During a test drive, listen for uneven brake pedal travel, grinding noises when applying brakes, or a spongy or hard pedal feel, which could signal warped discs, binding calipers, or worn master cylinder seals. The offside rear brake disc also showed pitting or scoring, which may worsen with continued use and could lead to reduced braking efficiency or premature pad replacement. Additionally, check for uneven tyre wear patterns, particularly on the front tyres, which were noted as worn close to the legal limit during previous MOTs. Inspect the tread depth and look for signs of edge wear, which could indicate misalignment or suspension issues. The rear tyres, in particular, should be examined for cracking or perishing, as the 2026 advisory suggests ongoing wear that may compromise tyre integrity over time. Beyond the immediate concerns, a thorough physical inspection should also include a check of the vehicle’s suspension and exhaust system. Given the age and mileage, inspect the suspension bushes and coil springs for signs of wear, such as excessive play, cracks, or oil leaks around the bushings. Clunking noises from the suspension during cornering or over bumps are common indicators of worn suspension components. The exhaust system should be examined for leaks, rust, or structural damage, as corrosion can compromise the vehicle’s emissions compliance and structural integrity. Pay particular attention to the catalytic converter and muffler, as these are critical for emissions and safety. The battery should also be tested for health, especially if the vehicle has been stored for extended periods, as a failing battery can lead to electrical gremlins and poor starting performance. Finally, verify that the service book records are up to date, particularly for fluid servicing—oil, brake fluid, coolant, and transmission fluid—since these should have been replaced according to the manufacturer’s schedule, which for the Venga typically spans 12,000 to 15,000 miles or every 12 months. If service records are incomplete, arrange for a professional inspection to confirm the vehicle’s internal condition, as the mileage alone does not guarantee that all consumables have been replaced.